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Towards the end of the month the comet will fade but rise higher in the sky, possibly making it easier to see.

On around March 30 its northward path will take it close to the Andromeda galaxy.

"That could provide a good picture for sky watchers," said Mr Scagell.

Panstarrs is not expected to revisit our skies for 110,000 years.

Another comet is expected to make a more dramatic appearance in November.

Comet Ison will fly closer to the Sun, causing it to light up. Experts say it could be bright enough to see in daylight, but from the UK it will only be visible low in the sky.

"It might be fantastic for a few days, but it's difficult to predict ahead of time," said Mr Scagell. "As ever we have to be cautious. What you might see is the tail of the comet sticking up above the horizon."